Why it matters: Approximately 27,000 patients have faced persistent access issues at Cardinal Medical Practice since it was formed in 2021, following a damning Care Quality Commission inspection in May 2022.
The details: In an update on Thursday, 2 October, Spencer said he had spoken to partners about the expansion plans.
"Plans for expanded premises are progressing, we are in a commercially sensitive territory with negotiations, and planning applications have been submitted," the Central Suffolk and North Ipswich MP said.
He also reminded patients that 11 October is flu vaccine day and urged those who have not signed up to do so.
For context: The update comes after plans for a £7.5m "super surgery" at the former Tooks Bakery site were scrapped in October 2024 due to rising costs.
In May 2025, the practice was revealed to be in talks with Ipswich Borough Council about converting the former Inkerman pub on Norwich Road into a new administrative centre with additional consulting rooms.
Spencer had previously said he was hopeful that construction could begin by Christmas, with expanded surgery capacity delivered by Easter 2026. It’s unclear if these timeframes remain feasible.
The bottom line: While Spencer says progress is being made, no timeline has been provided for when the expanded practice will be open to the thousands of patients who continue to wait for improved primary care facilities in the area.
